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Month / March 2013

In regard to my technical process, I have always had a deep interest in fibers and the ways in which they can be used. My current interest in fiber has led me to a study of knitting, which has a long history in my family. This material and technique are so appropriate for my work due to this history, that I follow the same steps as those who participated in this process before me, even down to using the same brand of yarn. Using yarn and knitting for my aesthetic may seem to be an odd choice for some; yet, it ties into my concept of comfort so well. The tactile quality that this material brings to the work, and the sense of security are all important to my concept; in reality, everything down to the cable knit stitching that creates the object are essential to my work.

Perhaps I should start from the beginning…

As a child, my mother had an oversized white sweater that served as her comfort item; she called it her “woobie”. Whenever I felt anxiety or any sort of discomfort, I searched for this “woobie” as a sanctuary. So, through my own art explorations I have been doing my best to create the perfect “woobie” that will cure any physical or mental ailments I may be suffering from. My work also asks the same question to the viewer, challenging them to step outside their built-up personas and look into the softer side; their inner childhood.

Much of my work lately has been dealing in the realm of Color Psychology and the way a color can change your mood. Currently, I am studying my own personal fascination with the colors orange and blue. In my personal studies of these colors I have noticed that I react positively to shades of orange, and rather negatively to shades of blue; while most, would respond to this question quite the opposite. This link is one that I have been looking to for inspiration and answers to my color psychology questions…

Another artist from who I take great inspiration is the fiber artist, Shane Waltener. Working with similar materials and a similar aesthetic are how we relate to one another artistically, but we differ in regard to placement of our works. Waltener’s works are mainly outdoor installations that interact with the natural space. When I create similar installations, I do not focus on a more natural setting, but rather how my work would activate in a gallery setting. Also, even though we are both using the same material and delicate aesthetic, Waltener seems to draw inspiration for his works from more naturally occuring situations, such as a spider spinning a web. My work focuses on the deconstruction and reconstruction of the fibers itself, rather than trying to imitate a fiber already created by a natural source.

Ann Hamilton is another artist who repeatedly inspires me with her work. Coming to the table with an installation and fiber background, she also brings a breath of fresh air to the Art World: performance.

I find myself to be similar to Hamilton in the types of art we both find interesting, but our aesthetic differs. As mentioned before, I dabble in the use of recycled fibrous materials, while that does not seem to be part of Hamilton’s concept. In regard to performance, our concept differs in our approach. For example, the photo above is from Hamilton performing as a camera. She places herself in the position of the camera, and simulates what it would be like to look through someone’s eyes. In the way that I approach performance, I take on the entire action and try to influence the viewer’s emotion through my own actions.

Currently roaming around NYC for a long weekend! As a group we went to the MOMA, where we were able to see this beautiful piece made completely from pollen. Similar to Rothko, the color of yellow is practically flawless. Absolutely amazing! For more on my NYC trip, follow my blow or find me on Instagram: artistinspired0217

Just completed yesterday, here is my current fiber work: “my magic sweater”. I was prompted by my professor to challenge my use of recycled sweaters and create a piece that was deconstructed and to insert reconstructed pieces that I created myself. My concept behind this sweater is the constant search for comfort and security, with a major focus on textures and materials. Each of the pieces I created to add were knitted by hand using white yarn and rope. The center strip of coffee colored fiber was needle felted by hand from raw alpaca shavings to create a sort of handmade yarn. For more posts on fibers, continue following my blog!